ASC is partnering with the University of South Australia (UniSA) to support Honours students undertaking a Bachelor of Engineering, providing students with experience working on practical projects for potential use in Australia’s Collins Class submarine program.
The partnership also aims to give students an insight into engineering and technical job opportunities within Australia’s submarine workforce, advance their studies, and support the transition from university to industry.
Two projects underway include a study of specialised exoskeletons, and the development of advanced heat exchanger technology.
Exoskeletons have future workforce applications where robotics are not viable. The use of exoskeletons would assist employees’ movements, improve safety and reduce the likelihood of injury.
A novel heat exchanger technology is also being tested and verified, called ‘tube dimpling’. This technique seeks to create a more efficient heat exchange to keep the submarine cool.
ASC is providing in-kind support, including project supervisors and subject matter experts, together with funding as required.
ASC Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Whiley, said the partnership is mutually beneficial.
“ASC is working with Honours students on a number of innovative projects that could be refined and implemented on the Collins Class submarine program,” Whiley said.
“Honours students gain access to our experienced engineers, who work on the Collins Class submarine program every day and are providing advice and guidance to help them refine their projects and skills.
“As we continue the maintenance of the Collins Class fleet and prepare for its Life of Type Extension, it’s crucial we continue to attract more engineers to the defence industry.
“That’s why ASC’s partnerships with tertiary institutions and secondary schools are so important. These activities will ensure the next generation of students are aware of the long-term job opportunities in defence.”
Associate Professor Craig Priest, Professorial Lead at UniSA’s Future Industries Institute, says industry-based projects are transformational for students.
“The students gain unique skills, experiences, networks, and opportunities that make UniSA graduates work-ready and in high-demand,” Associate Professor Craig Priest said.
“UniSA welcomes ASC’s shared commitment to outstanding industry-based learning.”